Understanding VEX IQ Connectors and Standoffs

VEX plastic connectors and standoffs are the fasteners for the VEX plastic construction system. The connectors and standoffs included in (1st gen) and (2nd gen) kits function in the same ways, but may be different colors. The (2nd gen) kit provides additional types of  connectors and standoffs. 

This picture illustrates IQ (2nd gen) Connectors and Standoffs.

This picture illustrates IQ (1st gen) Connectors and Standoffs.

The functions of VEX plastic connectors/standoffs range from general to very specific uses depending on the type of connector. 

Pins

Pins are used to connect many components on the robot from the Electronics to the Structure of the robot.  Some examples of pin types are shown below:

• Connector Pins are designed to be inserted into the holes of components for attachment. There are 1x1 Connector Pins which are designed to connect a single component to another, such as connecting the robot’s brain to a beam. (An example of this can be seen in the VEX IQ Clawbot build instructions.) There are 1x2 Connector pins which connect a single component to two additional components, such as connecting a Corner Connector to a 2X Beam and then attaching an additional 1X Beam. Last, there are 2x2 Connector Pins which can attach two layers of components to two additional layers of components. 

• Capped Connector Pins provide another type connection in designs where there may be a risk of a standard Connector Pin being pulled out because the cap can not be pulled through a hole. Capped Connector Pins can also be used to reinforce an assembly after it has been assembled because the pins can be inserted from the outside surface. These pins are designed to be pushed through the hole in one component and into the hole of the next. There are 0x2 pins for connecting two components together and 0x3 pins for connecting three layers of components.

Standoffs

Standoffs are used to separate two parts from one another while creating a rigid connection. An example of this would be, separating two 2X Beams so a series of drive gears can be placed between them. Standoffs can also be assembled to handle game pieces, such as making a fork on the end of an arm.  Available standoffs include 0.5x, 1x, 2x, 4x, and 6x lengths. Standoffs also include Standoff Connectors such as End Standoff Connectors which can create a pivot point at the end of the standoff, and Mini and Standard Standoff Connectors which allow standoffs to be connected to one another. 

Corner Connectors

Corner Connectors come in a variety of orientations, allowing for a nearly endless number of options to create three-dimensional designs connecting Beams, Plates and other components. Some of the available Corner Connectors include: